Ask Lee

AARP President W. Lee Hammond answers your questions

A: AARP produces two shows, which you can see on public TV stations. My Generation, hosted by Leeza Gibbons, covers issues from health and money to relationships and volunteering. It also profiles inspiring individuals who mke a difference in their communities. Inside E Street, hosted by Lark McCarthy, focuses on public-affairs concerns: Newsmakers and opinion leaders debate hot topics of the day, such as state pension issues, health care reform, and the economic impact of boomers turning 65. Find local listings at aarp.org/tv.

Q: What do members get from AARP's international work?

A: Our Office of International Affairs studies health and financial-security initiatives worldwide. For example, I learned on a recent trip that Germany's largest department store employs a demography officer, who ensures that corporate decisions reflect age and ability levels of customers and emloyees.

We also connect with other national member-based organizations serving the 50-plus population — in Canada, Chile, Denmark, India, Italy, and the Netherlands — through the AARP Global Network. Members enjoy reciprocal benefits, so when you're in Copenhagen, say, use your AARP discount on dinner theater. Learn more at aarpinternational.org and aarpglobalnetwork.org.

Q: I see ads for AARP products. Where does that money go?

A: As a nonprofit social-mission organization, AARP does not actually have products. Instead, we lend our name to products and services that meet our standards and have been through a careful review process; AARP receives royalties from the various providers. We rely on a variety of sources, including membership dues, ads in our publications, and the royalties to help enable us to fulfill our mission for the 50-plus population — from advocacy (fighting to protect Social Security and the rights of older employees) to legislative support (encouraging state efforts to hold down utility costs) — and to help provide services, such as our publications and health and consumer guides.

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